How to Grow a False Spirea Shrub

A false spirea in full bloom is an amazing site. Graceful, fuzzy-looking clusters of tiny white flowers are borne on stiff stems with fern-like leaves. The magnificent clusters can grow to 10-inches long and the double-toothed leaves reach an impressive 20 inches. The spirea blooms in early-to-midsummer and the effect can be stunning. With minimal effort you get maximum reward.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• False spirea shrub
• Shovel
• Water
• Mulch or other organic material
• Pruners

1. Choose a planting location. False spirea is a deciduous, rapid growing shrub that is successful in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 through 7. Plant in a full sun or partial shade location that has moist, rich well-drained soil. It will not grow well in deep shade.

2. Prepare the planting site. Clear the area of weeds and garden debris. Dig the planting hole 2 to 3 times the width of the shrub's container and equal in depth. When planted, the top of the shrub's rootball should be even with the surrounding ground.

3. Position the false spirea in the planting hole. Remove the shrub from its container and place in the planting hole. Secure the shrub by adding a small portion of the original soil around the base of the rootball.

4. Soak the shrub. "Water in" the shrub by filling the planting hole with water and allow the rootball and surrounding soil to absorb. Backfill the remaining soil and water again thoroughly. Watering in helps to prevent transplant shock.

5. Mulch the planting area. Mulching or "dressing" the site helps to minimize maintenance and gives a finished look to the garden. Spread a layer of mulch 2 to 4 inches deep around the false spirea and planting area. The mulch should be maintained to prevent the loss of moisture, keep the fibrous roots cool and to prevent weeds.

Tips & Warnings

• A mature false spirea has a rounded form 5 to 10 feet tall and 5 to 10 feet in width.
• The suckering nature of the shrub makes it a good choice for naturalized areas or locations where soil erosion is a problem. It is a good specimen to plant in the garden when regular pruning is practiced.
• False spirea is easily propagated from root cutting, suckers or seeds.
• The scientific name for the false spirea shrub is "sorbaria sorbifolia."
• False spirea spreads rapidly through a fibrous root system and can be difficult to contain. Prune the roots regularly, and remove half of the stems in the spring.